15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Cambodia
Last updated on Feb 01, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Cambodia is generally lower than in the United States. Emergency services are limited and often lack the necessary resources to provide adequate care. To call for an ambulance, one must contact the local police station or the Ministry of Health. In some cases, private ambulances may be available, but they are often expensive and may not be equipped with the necessary medical supplies.
How are healthcare services Cambodia?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cambodia, they replied:
"Specifically, the International Clinics are preferred. CT Clinic can be good or not so good. My doctor here is Russian. Here, 4 years of college and a score of 50% on the final exam qualifies a Cambodian to become a doctor. Best to avoid of course," mentioned one expat in Sihanoukville.
"Cambodia has a public healthcare system that provides basic healthcare services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Cambodia is generally considered to be low, with limited access to medical equipment and supplies. Foreign residents in Cambodia have access to the public healthcare system, but the quality of care is not as high as in other countries. Expats in Cambodia often use private healthcare services, which are more expensive but offer better quality care. Private healthcare services are available in major cities, such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and are often used by expats who are not covered by public healthcare," commented one expat who moved to Cambodia.
What are medical services in Cambodia like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cambodia, they replied:
"Cambodia has a limited number of medical facilities and services, with most of the country's medical care being provided by private clinics and hospitals. The quality of medical care varies greatly, with some facilities providing excellent care while others are inadequate. The availability of medicines and medical supplies is also limited, and many medications are not available in the country. In addition, the cost of medical care is often high, making it difficult for many people to access the care they need," commented one expat who moved to Cambodia.
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Cambodia?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Cambodia can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's health insurance scheme. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. The cost of medical care in Cambodia is generally higher than in other countries in the region, and the quality of care can vary significantly. Additionally, access to healthcare can be limited in rural areas, making it difficult for people to receive the care they need," wrote an expat living in Cambodia.
"I don't have health insurance. The cost of medical care is quite low. A typical consultation is typically $20. PS I would no longer recommend Sihanoukville. 10,000+ Chinese have moved there and buying up hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and land. It's not the pleasant beach town it used to be," said an expat in Sihanoukville.
Get Quote
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote
What are emergency services like in Cambodia?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Cambodia wrote:
"Emergency services in Cambodia are limited and vary in quality. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 119. This is the national emergency number and will connect you to the nearest hospital or ambulance service. However, due to the limited resources available, response times can be slow and the quality of care may not be up to international standards," wrote an expat living in Cambodia.
"About a mile. Hospitals are limited to the International Clinics and CT Clinic. All are open 24/7 and the health care, of course, varies from poor to good. I assume they are private," said an expat in Sihanoukville.
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"For serious health issues many people go to Bangkok, Thailand. I haven't needed to go but I've heard the care is top notch," remarked one expat living in Sihanoukville.
"Phnom Penh is the largest city in Cambodia and is home to the country's best selection of medical specialists. The city is home to a number of hospitals and clinics, including the Royal Phnom Penh Hospital, the Calmette Hospital, and the Khmer-Soviet Friendship Hospital, all of which offer a wide range of medical services. Siem Reap is another popular destination for medical care, with a number of hospitals and clinics offering a variety of services. The Angkor Hospital for Children is one of the most well-known medical facilities in the area, providing specialized care for children. Battambang is another city with a good selection of medical specialists, with a number of hospitals and clinics offering a range of services. Other cities and areas in Cambodia with a good selection of medical specialists include Sihanoukville, Kampot, and Kep," said one expat living in Cambodia.
Are common prescription medications available in Cambodia?
"Prescription medications are available in Cambodia, although the availability of certain medications may vary depending on the region. Many pharmacies in Cambodia carry a wide range of generic medications, as well as some brand-name medications. However, some medications may not be available in Cambodia, and it is recommended to check with a local pharmacy before travelling to ensure that the necessary medications are available," wrote an expat living in Cambodia.
"I can walk into any pharmacy and buy anything they have in stock. No prescription needed. What they carry varies considerably, but the standard meds, ibuprofen, anti-biotics, et cetera are readily available and quite inexpensive. I simply walk in, say what I need, and write it down clearly if they don't understand English well enough," said an expat in Sihanoukville.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Cambodia?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Cambodia are generally of a lower standard than in many other countries. The quality of care varies greatly between different hospitals and clinics, with some providing basic services and others offering more advanced treatments. In general, the availability of medical supplies and equipment is limited, and the cost of medical care is often high. Despite these challenges, there are a number of dedicated healthcare professionals in Cambodia who are committed to providing quality care to their patients," said an expat in Cambodia.
As a foreigner living in Cambodia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Cambodia have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the facility, but generally the public healthcare system is underfunded and understaffed. The public healthcare system is often overcrowded and lacks the necessary resources to provide quality care. However, there are some private hospitals and clinics that offer better quality care," wrote one expat.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Cambodia if they have access to public healthcare in Cambodia. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"At my age ( 75 ) I have not yet been able to obtain a vaccine nor has my wife at age 60," mentioned one expat in Phnom Penh.
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Cambodia. The country has seen a dramatic increase in the number of people seeking medical care, with many hospitals and clinics struggling to cope with the influx of patients. The government has implemented a number of measures to help alleviate the strain on the healthcare system, including providing additional funding for medical facilities and personnel, and increasing access to testing and treatment. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system in Cambodia is still facing significant challenges, with many people unable to access the care they need due to a lack of resources and infrastructure," commented one expat who moved to Cambodia.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Cambodia?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Cambodia about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the medical facilities available in Cambodia before having a baby. Make sure to find a reliable and experienced doctor or midwife who can provide quality care. It is also important to ensure that you have access to the necessary medical supplies and medications. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Cambodia. Finally, it is important to build a strong support network of family and friends who can provide emotional and practical support during the pregnancy and after the baby is born," said one person in Cambodia.
Are healthcare services good in Cambodia?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Cambodia. They wrote:
"Cambodia has a limited healthcare system, with most of the population relying on private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is largely underfunded and understaffed, and is often unable to provide adequate care. Private healthcare services are more widely available, but are often expensive and out of reach for many people. The government has made efforts to improve access to healthcare, including providing free healthcare for children under five and pregnant women. However, access to healthcare remains a challenge for many people in Cambodia," said one person in Cambodia.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Cambodia?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Cambodia?
- Will I be able to find a job in Cambodia?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Cambodia appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Cambodia?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Cambodia accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Cambodia like?
- How are healthcare services in Cambodia?
- What are medical services in Cambodia like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Cambodia?
- What are emergency services like in Cambodia?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Cambodia?
- How are local medical facilities in Cambodia?
- As a foreigner living in Cambodia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?